'I can make a difference' – Chris Wilder’s first words as his second Sheffield United stint begins

Chris Wilder, confident in his ability to breathe life back into Sheffield United’s struggling season, has answered an SOS call from his boyhood club he once guided to the Premier League.

Returning to Bramall Lane on an 18-month contract, Wilder takes the reins after Paul Heckingbottom’s dismissal, with the Blades languishing at the bottom of the table with just five points from the first 14 games.

Wilder said in his first interview back as the Blades manager: “Quite simply it was an opportunity which I just couldn’t turn down. Just like in 2016, when this club comes calling, it is not something you pass up.” [SUTV]

He added:

“This is Sheffield United, it is my team and I am thrilled to be back. We find ourselves in a difficult position, I understand that, but I think I can make a difference.”

Despite guiding Sheffield United to promotion as Championship runners-up last season, Heckingbottom has become the Premier League’s first managerial casualty of the season.

Chris Wilder’s first challenge is a home game against in-form Liverpool on Wednesday, following Heckingbottom’s departure, which was confirmed on Tuesday afternoon after a 5-0 defeat to Burnley at the weekend.

Will the Blades get a much-needed new manager bounce?